1979 | Saab 96 GL V4

Automatic translation suggestion. Original language of the auction listing: German.

The design of the Saab 96 was inspired by aircraft technology and featured advanced aerodynamics for its time. The car was produced from March 1960 to January 1980, with the V4 version introduced in 1966.

Saab introduced several safety innovations with the 96, including a headlight cleaning system, impact-absorbing bumpers, and automatic seat heating. The automatic seat heating was an innovative feature that Saab introduced with the 96 V4 model. Here are the key points about the automatic seat heating of the Saab 96 V4. The electrically heated driver's seat was introduced as standard equipment for the Saab 99, 95, and 96 models in 1972. The system was integrated into the seat cushion and backrest. It automatically activated when the ignition was turned on and the interior temperature was below 14°C (58°F). A thermostat switched off the heater when the seat temperature reached 28°C (82°F). The heating system was fully protected against electric shocks and was not affected by moisture or water that might come into contact with the seat. This feature was an exclusive innovation from Saab at the time and represented a significant advancement in the automotive industry. The automatic seat heating was designed as a preventive measure against driver back pain, ensuring greater driving comfort and ultimately more safety.

This innovation was later adopted by other car manufacturers and is now standard in many vehicles.

The Saab 96 V4 GL was equipped with a 1.5-liter V4 engine from Ford, producing around 68 horsepower. This engine replaced the earlier two-stroke engine and brought a significant performance improvement. The car had front-wheel drive, which was relatively uncommon at the time and gave it good driving characteristics. Exact production numbers for the V4 GL are not available, but the long production period of nearly 20 years suggests a considerable total number. The last units rolled off the assembly line at the Finnish factory in Uusikaupunki on January 11, 1980.

Saab's reputation for building durable and reliable cars is partly based on the 96.

The rally successes of the Saab 96 in the 1960s and early 1970s contribute to its appeal. This particular example was added to the collection as a running vehicle 5 years ago but was never registered and has since been in the collection. Unfortunately, there was no time to finalize the car, so this visually rally-prepared car is being sold as a restoration project.